The annual Port Macquarie Mother's Day Classic walk is on again at Westport Park raising money for breast cancer research.
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All proceeds from the walk, on May 12, go directly to helping fund scientists find a cure for breast cancer along with better treatments with less side effects.
In 2019, Irene Mifsud, Magalie Lameloise and Bron Watson have all bravely stepped up to share their personal story and experience of being diagnosed with the disease, while highlighting the importance of funding research for the walk.
Having been diagnosed with breast cancer for the first time at the age of 33, and then again at aged 40, Magalie knows too well how vital research into treatment and finding a cure for breast cancer is.
"I'm here in front of you, and I am okay, because I had very good treatment, and I had such a good medical team that was around me to help and answer my questions, and I have hope thanks to research," Magalie said.
"Maybe we don't have a cure for cancer now, but who knows what we're going to come up with for tomorrow.
"And, if it's not tomorrow, at least for now, we have better treatment and many more options, thanks to research."
One in seven Australian women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime and one in 675 Australian men will be diagnosed in their lifetime.
Bron Watson said she was proud to be a voice for the local event for the second year in a row, helping raise awareness and fund research.
"I stand up and be the voice for those who can't and for those who are no longer with us, being uncomfortable is an understatement," Bron said.
"The reason why I love, support and am passionate about the Mother's Day Classic is the fact that all funds go to research and if we can help someone not to have the side effects I did then absolutely I am there."
Eight women die every day from breast cancer in Australia and more than 3000 people will lose their lives to breast cancer in 2019.
Diagnosed in February 2019 Irene said she is passionate about the walk to keep positive during a hard time.
"Research has allowed my disease to be controlled with less invasive side effects so I can continue to live my big and beautiful life," Irene said.
"For me the walk is so important because it is something positive and fun when I have just been diagnosed with a grim disease.
"Raising money for research is why I am positive about the future."
To take part in the walk you can register online by Wednesday, May 8 for a discounted rate or in person at the Foreshore Markets at Westport Park on May 11 or on walk day, May 12.
The overall event raises funds from the event will go to the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF), but the funds raised through their sale of raffle tickets, pink merchandise and event-day donations are shared equally between the NBCF, as well as the Mid North Coast Cancer Institute (MNCCI).
The walk begins at Westport Park at 7.15 am.